Cash to wipe out black spots

By Lia Bichel
FOUR dangerous black spots in the City of Casey will receive safety improvements thanks to almost a million dollars in federal funding.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure Anthony Albanese, Holt MP Anthony Byrne and La Trobe MP Laura Smyth announced the funding last week.
Mr Byrne said the funding will help to make local roads safer for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
Timbarra Residents Association representative Brian Miller welcomed the news.
“As a Berwick local, I’m particularly relieved to see these busy intersections earmarked for funding,” he said.
“Whether it’s driving or riding our bicycle around Berwick with my son or heading up to golf, I often find myself passing through these intersections.”
City of Casey Mayor Shar Balmes said the Federal Black Spot Program was an important and effective scheme for the council.
“Research has shown that the Federal Blackspot Program is effective in reducing road trauma and council is pleased that the Federal Government is continuing to provide support to Local Government through this program,” Cr Balmes said.
A total of $995,000 will be used to construct a roundabout at the intersection of Lynbrook Boulevard and Hutchinson Drive, Lynbrook; to modify the existing roundabout at the intersection of Greaves Road and The Avenue, Narre Warren; to construct slipper islands and kerbs at the intersection of Inglis Road and Buchanan Road at Berwick and for the construction of a right turn lane and relocation of the bus bay and light poles at Ernst Wanke Road and Amber Crescent, Narre Warren.
Ms Smyth and Mr Byrne invited residents to nominate intersections or sections of road that they believe should be considered for a safety upgrade.
Nomination forms are available from their offices or can be downloaded from www.nationbuildingprogram.gov.au.